How to Prevent an AAA Rupture

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a serious medical condition. It is a form of cardiovascular disease related to coronary artery disease, the culprit in heart attacks, and is most prevalent in elderly male smokers. The aorta is the body's largest blood vessel. As the aorta travels through the abdomen, it is susceptible to weakness in its wall that can lead to bulging, which can result in a rupture. In medical terms the bulging is known as an aneurysm. Unfortunately, most AAAs are asymptomatic until the bulging becomes so significant that a rupture occurs. This rupture leaks blood into the abdominal cavity and often leads to death.

Instructions

• 1

  Make healthy choices. Abdominal aortic aneurysms can be prevented by living a healthy lifestyle. The most serious risk factor is smoking. Having no history of smoking drastically reduces your risk of developing an AAA to almost none. Quitting smoking at any age is an important way to decrease the likelihood of an AAA from forming or rupturing. Other important lifestyle choices include diet and exercise. It is also important to maintain low cholesterol. Supplements such as fish oils or medications such as statins can help to reduce cholesterol levels in the body.

• 2

  Talk with your doctor. The best way to prevent an abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture is early diagnosis. Diagnosis is made through a visit to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to feel an AAA while performing a physical exam or may suggest an ultrasound to visualize the size of your aorta in your abdomen. Screening for an AAA through ultrasound is recommended for all men 65 to 74 years old who have a history of smoking. If an AAA is detected, you may need to undergo further ultrasounds to determine if the AAA is growing and at risk for rupture.

• 3

  Consider surgery. Surgical correction is indicated if an AAA measures greater than 5.5 cm in diameter or has undergone rapid growth, as determined by your doctor. There are two different approaches for surgical correction. The first approach is an open surgical repair, where an incision is made on the abdomen and a graft is placed around the aneurysm. The second surgical approach is endovascular repair, where a stent is placed on the inside of the aneurysm after being passed through one of the iliac arteries, which are located in the upper legs. Studies have shown similar outcomes between the two surgical approaches, so the decision on which one to choose will be up to you and your doctor.